Malta Daily has caught up with local football starlet Maria Farrugia after she managed to balance both graduating from a science degree in Sport and Exercise Science whilst also playing in the English Premier League.
Having just shifted team to Durham Women FC, we celebrated her massive achievement by giving Maria space to talk all about her experience. Here is what she had to say:
How did you juggle your studies and social life whilst at the same time playing for one of the largest clubs in the UK (Sunderland)?
“Achieving a balance between studies, football and social life while at university was a bit challenging. However, by planning and managing my time well, as well as setting priorities, it helped me to stay organised and on top of everything. In addition, my family and friends have been a constant source of support and encouragement throughout this journey, which I cannot thank them enough for.”
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What course did you graduate from and how do you think it will help you in, not only your sporting career, but your personal life as well?
“I graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Sport and Exercise Science from Northumbria University, UK. The degree has helped me gain a better understanding of sports performance along with subject-specific knowledge in areas such as anatomy, physiology, psychology, and biomechanics.
In addition, I have gained knowledge, skills, and experience that will be useful in my career and life in general as the the demand for sports science is increasing year after year and this opens up more doors in the future.”
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What advice do you give to young Maltese athletes who are maybe scared to take the next step abroad because of their education and the lack of safety they might feel?
“My advice would be to push themselves beyond their comfort zones. It’s perfectly normal to be nervous and anxious before moving abroad, but pushing yourself beyond your comfort zones can help you develop and achieve your goals not only as an athlete but also as a person.”
How do you feel when you come back to Malta and get to represent your country internationally, playing with the likes of Haley Bugeja and Rachel Cuschieri?
“Representing your country is one of the most honourable things you can do. It is such a special and proud moment every time you wear the shirt and step onto the pitch with your teammates. It is an indescribable feeling. I believe every player is able to contribute to the team.” Hopefully in the coming games everyone will give their best as they always do to be able to gain positive results.
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Even though you’re only 21, you have already achieved quite a lot in the football world. Do you have any specific targets or goals that you would like to see yourself achieve come the end of your career?
“One of my goals is to play at the highest level possible for one of the largest clubs in the world, but I must continue to work hard, improve every day, and always keep my feet on the ground.”
Farrugia also took the opportunity to give special thanks to the Malta Sport Scholarship for assisting her financially, something which the footballer states she will be forever grateful for.
Kudos Maria!
#MaltaDaily
